NEGOTIATING SKILLS:

In a CD-ROM of this nature we can only cover some of the basic ideas and strategies behind negotiating skills; however, there are many good books on the subject, which is typically covered by books on management skills.  

In essence, negotiation is a form of 'conflict management' - and it may seem strange to use a word so emotive as 'conflict', but if nobody challenges anything then nothing gets done!  However the conflict must be 'constructive' or else again, nothing will change; i.e. in meetings, people must feel free to speak their minds and be honest with each other; but they must also respect each other's viewpoints and feelings. By the correct use of negotiating skills people work more effectively with each other and so can develop practical solutions to most problems.

The following table indicates some styles of negotiation that you will need to recognise to ensure that group meetings etc., go smoothly and group tasks are allocated fairly.

Click here to view table

For example do any of the following strategies seem relevant to you?  Perhaps you need to consider alternative styles:

• I always stick to my position.
• I always put my needs above those of others.
• I try to find errors in other peoples' ideas and enjoy winning an argument.
• I avoid discussion on controversial issues.
• I would never admit that I'm wrong.